Date of Award
Spring 5-11-2012
Degree Type
Honors College Thesis
Department
Physics and Astronomy
First Advisor
Alina Gearba
Advisor Department
Physics and Astronomy
Abstract
The photoionization of atoms is still an emerging field with a foundation in laboratories and journals, yet much in the field is unknown. Photoionization is the phenomenon of an incident photon on a gaseous atom causing the ejection of an electron, and therefore, the atom becomes an ion. The photoelectric effect is a similar but broader term dealing with atoms in all forms: solid, liquid, gas, and plasma. The photoelectric effect causes a current whenever light with a certain wavelength is shined on a metal. The wavelength that is needed to eject an electron is dependent on the atom(s) involved and the state that atom is in. The photons will free electrons, which can be used to power devices. Examples can be seen in photocells and solar cells [1]. Photocells can detect light through the photoelectric effect by producing a current. They are common in photodiodes, photomultiplier tubes, and night vision devices. Solar cells convert light into electrical energy and can be seen in solar powered calculators, cars, lights, and other solar powered devices.
Copyright
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Recommended Citation
Young, Charles, "Photoionization Cross Section Measurement of Rb 5P3/2" (2012). Honors Theses. 36.
https://aquila.usm.edu/honors_theses/36